Individual Apple Pies
Highlighted under: Easy Baking Recipes
Delight in these charming Individual Apple Pies, perfect for a cozy dessert or a festive gathering.
These Individual Apple Pies are not only delicious but also bring a sense of nostalgia. They remind us of family gatherings and warm kitchens filled with the scent of baked apples and cinnamon. Each pie is a little bundle of joy that you can enjoy anytime!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Flaky, buttery crust that complements the sweet apple filling
- Warm spices that evoke the essence of fall
- Perfectly portioned for individual enjoyment
The Perfect Fall Treat
As the leaves begin to change and the air turns crisp, there's nothing quite like the comforting aroma of freshly baked apple pie wafting through your home. Individual Apple Pies capture the essence of fall in every flaky, buttery bite. These delightful pastries are not only visually appealing but also a celebration of seasonal flavors that evoke warm memories of family gatherings and cozy evenings.
The combination of tender apples, warm spices, and a perfectly baked crust creates a dessert that is both satisfying and heartwarming. Each pie is a personal serving of joy, making them ideal for sharing with loved ones during autumn festivities or simply indulging in a quiet moment at home.
Crafting the Ideal Crust
A great pie starts with a fantastic crust, and this recipe ensures you achieve that flaky, buttery perfection every time. The key lies in using cold butter and ice water, which help create a tender texture. When mixing the ingredients, it's important to handle the dough minimally to prevent it from becoming tough. Aim for a crumbly consistency before chilling, allowing the butter to firm up and the flavors to meld.
Once chilled, rolling out the dough is a breeze. Be sure to dust your surface with flour to prevent sticking, and don’t hesitate to use a rolling pin to shape the dough into perfect rounds. This crust will not only encase your delicious filling but also add that irresistible crunch that pairs beautifully with the sweet apple mixture.
Personalizing Your Filling
While the classic combination of apples and cinnamon is a timeless choice, feel free to get creative with your filling! Consider adding a touch of nutmeg or ginger for an extra kick. You can also mix in different types of apples to achieve a balance of tart and sweet flavors. Granny Smith apples offer a nice tang, while Honeycrisp brings sweetness and crunch.
For additional texture and flavor, try incorporating raisins, dried cranberries, or a sprinkle of oats. These additions can elevate your Individual Apple Pies, making them uniquely yours. Remember, the goal is to create a filling that speaks to your palate, so don't shy away from experimenting with various fruits and spices.
Ingredients
Gather these ingredients to make your Individual Apple Pies:
For the Pie Crust
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and diced
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 4-5 tablespoons ice water
For the Filling
- 3 medium apples, peeled, cored, and sliced
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
Make sure to have everything ready before you start assembling your pies!
Instructions
Follow these steps to create your Individual Apple Pies:
Prepare the Pie Crust
In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt. Add the diced butter and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in the ice water, a tablespoon at a time, until the dough comes together.
Make the Filling
In a large bowl, mix the sliced apples with sugar, cinnamon, lemon juice, and flour. Toss until the apples are well coated.
Assemble the Pies
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Roll out each disk of dough on a floured surface and fit them into small pie pans. Fill each with the apple mixture and top with a small piece of dough or a lattice if desired.
Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the apples are tender. Let cool slightly before serving.
Enjoy your delicious Individual Apple Pies warm, perhaps with a scoop of vanilla ice cream!
Serving Suggestions
Once your Individual Apple Pies are baked to perfection, consider serving them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream. The contrast of hot pie and cold cream creates a delightful experience that will leave your guests wanting more. You could also drizzle caramel sauce over the top for an extra layer of indulgence.
For a festive touch, dust the pies with powdered sugar before serving, adding a beautiful finish that enhances their charm. Presenting these pies on a rustic wooden platter surrounded by autumn leaves or cinnamon sticks can create an inviting display that is sure to impress.
Storage Tips
If you happen to have leftovers, these Individual Apple Pies can be stored easily. Allow them to cool completely before placing them in an airtight container. They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to three days, ensuring you can enjoy a slice of fall even after your gathering has ended.
For longer storage, consider freezing the pies before baking. Wrap each pie tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then store in the freezer for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy, simply bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time for a freshly baked taste any time you crave it.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use store-bought pie crust?
Yes, store-bought pie crust can save time and still yield delicious results.
→ What kind of apples are best for pies?
Firmer apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Braeburn work wonderfully for pies.
→ Can I make the filling ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the filling a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator.
→ How do I store leftover pies?
Store leftover pies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Individual Apple Pies
Delight in these charming Individual Apple Pies, perfect for a cozy dessert or a festive gathering.
Created by: Anna
Recipe Type: Easy Baking Recipes
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Pie Crust
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and diced
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 4-5 tablespoons ice water
For the Filling
- 3 medium apples, peeled, cored, and sliced
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
How-To Steps
In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt. Add the diced butter and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in the ice water, a tablespoon at a time, until the dough comes together. Divide the dough into four portions, shape into disks, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for about 30 minutes.
In a large bowl, mix the sliced apples with sugar, cinnamon, lemon juice, and flour. Toss until the apples are well coated.
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Roll out each disk of dough on a floured surface and fit them into small pie pans. Fill each with the apple mixture and top with a small piece of dough or a lattice if desired.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the apples are tender. Let cool slightly before serving.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 300 kcal
- Total Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
- Sodium: 150mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 38g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 20g
- Protein: 2g